The high number of deaths have revived discussions on labelling heatwaves as a natural disaster. Are heatwaves a natural disaster? The National Disaster Management Act (NDMA) is the key piece of legislation governing the roles of the Centre and States in responding to a natural disaster. Several places in the Himalayan States with temperatures in the mid-30s have reported heatwaves, because it is several degrees above normal. With the frequency of heatwaves rising, State, district, and cities have prepared heat action plans (HAPs).

Source: The Hindu June 23, 2024 08:52 UTC